Los Angeles, California – Beyoncé called D’Angelo the “pioneer of neo-soul” after his shocking death from pancreatic cancer.
On Tuesday, the 44-year-old Grammy-winner mourned the late Lady singer’s tragic passing on her website.
“Rest in peace, Michael Eugene Archer, known to the world of music as the inimitable D’Angelo,” she began, while sharing a black-and-white photo of the artist.
“We thank you for your beautiful music, your voice, your proficiency on the piano, your artistry. You were the pioneer of neo-soul and that changed and transformed rhythm & blues forever. We will never forget you.”
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Beyoncé’s tribute came hours after it was announced that D’Angelo passed away at the age of 51 amid a private health battle.
The Nothing Even Matters hitmaker’s family shared in statement to Billboard, “The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life. After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer.”
D’Angelo, who shared a son with the late Angie Stone, was revered for his “legacy of extraordinarily moving music” in the statement that also asked for privacy while inviting fans to celebrate “the gift of song that he has left for the world.”
